Machine uptime is key to Grist Environmental

“Keeping our machines operational no matter how old they are is good for our waste business,” says James Grist of Grist Environmental

James was talking with Peter Haddock next to a JCB waste handler with over 9500 hours on the clock, which is still performing well thanks to help from dealer Holt JCB.

James has worked hands-on for the business since he left school and is a qualified plant and HGV operator. Over the years, the business has expanded and now operates from multiple locations, which are managed by a growing team that includes James and his brothers.

James’s role in the business includes new machine and equipment purchases, uptime, and machine performance. He also fully utilises the JCB LiveLink system for preventative maintenance.

On the site Peter visited, a new Powerscreen Warrior 1400X Scaling Screen was being fed by a JCB 140X, both of which had been financed by JCB Finance.

James: “As a family business, we like to go the extra mile. For example, there are plenty of times when I deliver skips at odd hours and when our teams do clean up work for festivals.

“And this is why getting the right machines and keeping them operational is so important. It’s also why we have to react fast to demand as we operate a diverse fleet.

We are not just running machines. We have everything from skip lorries and hook loaders to shredders, screeners, and crushers. This is why our relationship with JCB Finance is important, as it goes beyond just funding the machinery.

“It’s a more holistic approach that includes service and warranty packages, and working with Dave Crosby, we have built up a very good relationship that allows for quick decision making.”